Nicholas McCarthy was born without his right-hand; a minor set-back for such a tenacious and committed individual, who, at 14, turned his attention to playing the piano. Unfortunately, some people didn’t think this was a worthwhile pursuit. Refused entry to a local music school and told he was ‘wasting his time’, Nicholas used others’ doubt and rejection to propel his journey to stardom. Accepted into the distinguished and world-renowned Royal College of Music, Nicholas became the first left-handed student to graduate in the college’s 130-year history. Recently signed to Warner Music, Nicholas has toured the world with his left-handed repertoire; performed alongside Coldplay for the 2012 Paralympics closing ceremony, and is living-proof that the word ‘no’ should never be an obstacle to achieving our goals.
Nicholas McCarthy appears by kind permission of Warner Classics.
In this episode, you will learn:
- What inspired Nicholas McCarthy to start playing the piano at 14-years old.
- How Nicholas dealt with rejection by the teacher who told him he’d ‘never be a pianist.’
- How he convinced his parents to pay for piano lessons.
- How he combats the negativity of doubters.
- How being told not to audition for college motivated Nicholas further.
- How running enhances Nicholas’ musical performance and stamina.
- What frustrates Nicholas about the public’s perception of ‘classical music.’
- How and why we should inspire children with classical music.
- How it feels to play alongside Coldplay.
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Episode resources:
Nicholas McCarthy official website
Nicholas McCarthy with Coldplay
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons – 25th Anniversary Edition
Follow Nicholas McCarthy on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube
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Victoria xx
I admire his strength of character and determination to succeed, and never taking no for an answer.
Yep, vital life skills, Russell. Amazing person to interview.
I really enjoyed this podcast as it brought back many memories for me, very inspiring.
I had my first piano lesson at the age of 6 and religiously practiced every Sunday morning for 3 years, then distractions came my way, which finally culminated it me pleading with my parents, much against their will to stop, a decision I still regret to these days.
However I will be visiting a music shop soon to view some keyboards, and try to rekindle those early days.
Fabulous, Carlos. Love to hear how the podcast is inspiring people. Good luck keyboard shopping
Now I want to see him in concert. Love his energy and positivity!
Elizabeth
Us too! Missed him when he came to our hometown. Won’t happen again!